Board members had been accused of losing their focus and mission, arguing with each other and splitting into factions. At one point, one faction even sued the other for control of the board and the schools.

In addition, Governor Nathan Deal appointed two liaisons to monitor the system's progress.

In a press release from the school system, Superintendent Erroll Davis said, "The Board should be commended for the work that it did to achieve this status. We are all pleased that this is behind us."

"We are ecstatic that the hard, but necessary, work to retain our accreditation has paid off," Atlanta Board of Education Chairman Reuben McDaniel said in a press release. "I am especially pleased that the board, administration, parents and community all rallied to take the necessary steps to make sure that our students have the best opportunity possible to pursue their college and career dreams. Although this is a journey and not a destination, I think we should celebrate this milestone."